Despite besting Serena Williams in one of the biggest upsets of all time, Roberta Vinci came up short against her Italian countrywoman in the U.S. Open finals on Saturday.
Instead, it was the 33-year-old Flavia Penneta who lifted the winner’s trophy, defeating Vinci in straight sets to make history as the oldest first-time women’s major champion in the Open era, according to USA Today.
After winning 7-6 (4), 6-2 and becoming the first woman ever to win her first Grand Slam after the age of 30, Pennetta immediately announced her retirement from the sport, as she said, "I make a big decision in my life - this is the way I like to say goodbye to tennis."
The Brindisi native, who collected a cool $3.3 million for winning, said she plans to finish the rest of the season before calling it quits.
Despite fears that it would be an empty following Serena’s shocking exit, 23,771 spectators turned out to see Pennetta dispatch the 43rd ranked Vinci, who dispatched Serena Williams in a stunning semifinals match, ending the world number one’s bid for a calendar Grand Slam.
"One month ago I decided that this is the way I would say goodbye to tennis," said Pennetta. "This is my last and I couldn't think of finishing in a better way."
The Italian finalists, who had been childhood friends, made history, as it marked the first all-Italian U.S. Open final.
Despite her defeat, Vinci appeared upbeat.
"I am really happy and really happy for Flavia. It's tough to play against a player who you have known for a long time.
"I tried to play my best, but Flavia played unbelievable and I have to say congrats to her."
image courtesy of INFphoto.com